The Rector of Luiss, Andrea Prencipe, has received the prestigious “Donato Menichella” award for his academic excellence in the field of socio-economic studies.

Now in its 23rd year, the award was presented to Professor Prencipe, as stated in the official citation, for “the commitment and passion he has dedicated, throughout his career as Rector of the University named after Guido Carli and as a full professor of organization and innovation, to exploring the socio-economic dynamics that drive business innovation, a field in which he is considered one of the foremost scholars.”

“I am delighted to receive the Donato Menichella Prize for socio-economic studies, an award that reflects the growing focus on the dynamics of innovation in business and society,” said Andrea Prencipe. “In a polycentric and dynamic environment, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of managing change rather than simply adapting to it. As I receive this award, I find myself reflecting on my academic and professional journey. I can only be filled with gratitude for the opportunities I've been given and for the extraordinary people who have crossed my path, both personally and professionally. This achievement stems from teamwork and a network of collaborations that have significantly contributed to earning this prestigious recognition. I thank the Menichella Foundation for establishing this initiative: I am deeply grateful for your commitment to promoting academic and entrepreneurial excellence.”

“This year,” added Luigi Iosa, Secretary General of the “Donato Menichella” Award, “the historic Fondazione Nuove Proposte Culturali, founded by Elio Michele Greco, who passed away last month, wanted to focus on Italian academic and entrepreneurial excellence in the field of digital transformation.”

“Andrea Prencipe’s research and publications,” the award citation continues, “have provided an in-depth analysis of strategies, organizational practices, and the impact of innovation within companies, laying the groundwork for improving corporate performance and fostering a better understanding of the dynamics that drive socio-economic progress.”

His institutional and innovative contributions as Rector of the Libera Università Internazionale degli Studi Sociali were also recognized. In this role, he introduced an educational model based on experiential learning, known as inquiry-based learning, as well as interdisciplinary and international courses, including a triple degree in Business Administration, a collaborative effort between Luiss, George Washington University (USA), and Renmin University (PRC).

Under his leadership, Luiss also boasts a core faculty from over 20 countries, offers 60 dual-degree programs, and has been ranked among the world's top 50 universities for social sciences (according to the QS International Ranking), specifically 14th globally for International Political Studies and 53rd in the Financial Times ranking of Masters in Management. This international and interdisciplinary approach also shapes Andrea Prencipe’s professional career. He has collaborated with numerous scholars and prestigious institutions worldwide, bringing innovative ideas and diverse approaches to the fields of socio-economic studies and university education. His commitment to bridging academic disciplines and cultures has enriched the scientific debate and helped develop new perspectives and solutions to contemporary socio-economic challenges.

During the ceremony, held at the CNEL, awards were also presented to Matteo Moretti, President & CEO of Lynx S.p.A., for “Entrepreneurial Cultural Patronage,” and to Corrado Passera, Founder & CEO of illimity Bank S.p.A., for “Patronage and Monetary and Credit Culture.”